Widespread Aviation Disruptions in Russia: Hundreds of Flights Canceled Due to ‘Security Threats’ and Military Incidents
For the second consecutive day, Russia has experienced significant disruptions in its air travel, with hundreds of flights canceled or delayed amid growing security concerns and adverse weather conditions. Recent days have seen severe airspace restrictions across the country, causing a massive transportation collapse in several major airports. According to sources, the affected airports include Moscow’s Sheremetyevo and Vnukovo, as well as St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo, along with airports in Ivanovo, Kaluga, Pskov, and Tambov. Since the evening of July 6, more than 170 flights have been canceled at Sheremetyevo, over 90 at Pulkovo, and 26 at Nizhny Novgorod. These measures are attributed to airspace limitations that temporarily halted flight operations. Official authorities, including Rosaviatsiya, assure the public that the situation is under control; however, large passenger terminals are experiencing long queues and delays. Overall, approximately 287 flights have been canceled, excluding those completely suspended at certain airports. Meanwhile, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that late on Sunday, Russia’s air defense allegedly shot down six drones heading toward Moscow. Debris from these drones is being inspected by relevant agencies. The background to these incidents includes a similar air traffic collapse the day before, on July 5, when nearly 100 flights were canceled in Moscow and Saint Petersburg. Local Telegram channels suggest that drone attacks caused these cancellations, adding tension to the region’s airspace security situation.